Cleaning Technology Updates
SolSafe 245 vs TCE
SolSafe 245 Vs 1,1,2-Trichlorethylene
|
Physical |
SolSafe 245 |
TCE |
Flash Point °F |
145 | None |
| Fire Rating |
Combustible | None |
| Odor | Mild | Pungent |
| Vapor Pressure mm Hg |
1 | 58 |
| VOC Content g/l |
850 | 1450 |
| Federal Regulatory Information | None | Appears on the SARA Title 313 Hazardous Substance List. Appears in the 40 CFR §372.65 Specific Toxic Chemical Listing. |
| Environmental / Biodegradability | Partially biodegradable |
Non-biodegradable |
| Solvency Power / KB | 106 | 129 |
* Both SolSafe 245 & TCE can be distilled. The 50% fraction is usually the cleanest.
Production Problems:
TCE is a very reactive solvent. The biggest potential problem with using TCE is the formation of hydrochloric acid. When TCE is exposed to moisture (air, water, etc.) a chemical reaction occurs and hydrochloric acid (HCl) is formed. This acid formation greatly reduces the pH of the cleaning solution. HCl formation can destroy a tank or the parts that are being cleaned. When this occurs, buffers or “pH inhibitor” chemicals must be added to the tank to prevent corrosion. I have seen stainless steel tanks that have had holes burned through them due to HCl formation.
Advantages of Using SolSafe 245:
There are several advantages to using SolSafe 245 over TCE. SolSafe 245 will greatly reduce the overall amount of VOC emissions. SolSafe 245 will not form HCl or any acid in the cleaning tank. SolSafe 245 is less toxic than TCE. Using SolSafe 245 will reduce the amount of chemicals to be used due to the slow evaporation rate. SolSafe 245 does not appear on the SARA Title 313 List for Toxic Chemicals.
